Dynamic economic dispatch using harmony search algorithm with modified differential mutation operator

Dynamic economic dispatch (DED), which is a complex non-linear constrained optimization problem, has a pivotal role in power system operation. It is one of the prime functions of power generation and control, where the aim is to operate an electrical power system most economically while the system operation is within its security limits. This problem possess non-convex characteristic when generation unit valve-point effects are considered. This paper proposes to solve DED problem with valve-point effects, using a modified form of recently developed differential harmony search algorithm. A five- and ten-unit system with non-smooth fuel cost function is used to establish the effectiveness of the proposed method over various other methods. It is shown that the proposed method is capable of providing better quality solutions.